Beaver Lake 'doesn't foresee' draining water after discovery of zebra mussels - KETV Omaha

Beaver Lake 'doesn't foresee' draining water after discovery of zebra mussels

Homeowners can talk to officials about zebra mussels later this month

Beaver Lake became the fourth body of water in Nebraska to have an established zebra mussel population, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Officials say an adult zebra mussel was found on a boat lift in mid-May. Follow-up sampling confirmed the presence of microscopic young zebra mussels and adult mussels, according to a news release.

A member of the Beaver Lake Association told KETV NewsWatch 7 the association doesn't foresee draining the lake to remove the invasive species, known to disrupt ecosystems and clog pipes. The Association found two adult mussels, according to its website.

Managing director Troy Weatherby says the lake is a large body of water, and draining it could affect the foundations of nearby homes.

An invasive species expert with Nebraska Game and Parks could not be reached for comment Monday.

Property owners can attend a Q&A meeting with the Game and Parks Commission and Beaver Lake Association on July 14 at 6 p.m. Click here for more information about the meeting.

Lot owners should look around their docks for any signs of the mollusks. You can report zebra mussels to the Game and Parks Commission at 402-471-7602 or ngpc.ais@nebraska.gov.